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Frequently Asked Questions

From our wealth of experience and expertise in loft conversions, Upmost Lofts recognise the client’s need to understanding the procedures and complexities surrounding the planning, regulations and build process of a loft conversion in London, Hertford and Essex. We have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions regarding loft conversions below.

The UK has seen a return to better times, with property development and demand for home improvements on the rise. Our schedule changes on a daily basis, please call for up-to-date timings, which can depend on any relevant planning, permissions and party wall agreements being in place.

How much will my loft conversion cost? Upmost Lofts
2017-11-17T09:52:14+00:00

Depending on the style of your property, a habitable loft conversion built to current building regulations would typically cost in the region of £15,000 to £40,000. We understand that this is quite a wide variation, and so for us to give you an exact costing on your property, you can arrange for a free no obligation quote by simply calling or emailing our team to arrange a time that’s suitable for you.

Not necessarily, it may be possible to convert your Loft under Lawful* Development, provided you meet the criteria set out in the Government Legislation introduced in October 2008. For your property to qualify it must be a house**, it must not be in a conservation area and if it is a leasehold property, you must have held the lease for at least 7 years. When converting your Loft under Lawful development you must match the existing materials of the property and must build within the volume quota relevant to the type of property in which you live:

Terraced = 40m³
Semi-detached = 50m³
Detached = 50m³

*This is also known as Permitted Development, they are the same thing.
**Flats do not qualify, regardless of whether they are purpose built or converted.

If I own my property leasehold, do I need the freeholders permission? Upmost Lofts
2015-07-15T13:12:34+00:00

Yes, you will need written permission from your freeholder in order to convert your loft. If you have any concerns, please feel free to get in touch and our team, who will happily take time to explain all.

Can I view a completed loft conversion? Upmost Lofts
2017-11-17T09:52:14+00:00

At Upmost Lofts we are confident with our level of finish that we actively encourage clients to view a completed loft conversion not only to see the standard our of workmanship, but also to speak with previous clients face-to-face.

Do I need to arrange local authority permissions? Upmost Lofts
2015-07-15T13:15:08+00:00

No, Upmost Lofts will arrange all Local Authority permissions where necessary. This includes drawing all the plans, making the application and liaising with council on your behalf to ensure the application is successful.

How long does it take to draw up the plans for my loft conversion? Upmost Lofts
2015-07-15T13:16:16+00:00

Using your own architect generally takes around 2-4 weeks to conduct the survey, draw up the plans and get them registered with the local authority. Utilising our own architect (who specialises in loft conversions) can reduce this process to approximately 10 days, although we are happy to work with your own architect, but bare in mind timings may differ.

How long does it take to obtain permission for my loft conversion? Upmost Lofts
2015-07-15T13:59:59+00:00

Due to recent changes in government legislation, under “Permitted Development”, home-owners more often than not, do not need to apply for planning consent as long as certain criteria are met. Please contact our team for further advice.

If planning permission is required, the process can take around 8 weeks for the local authority to make a decision on your submitted application. With vast experience in this field, Upmost Lofts can deal with any relevant submissions on your behalf.

Do I need to apply for building regulations when I convert my loft? Upmost Lofts
2015-07-15T14:02:03+00:00

During the first four weeks, the builders normally enter through the roof and then access the house during the final stages. This keeps disruption to a minimum. All materials are brought in externally through the roof.

Not necessarily, it may be possible to build you extension under Lawful* Development, provided you meet the criteria set out in the Government Legislation introduced in October 2008. For you property to qualify it must be a house**, it must NOT be in a conservation area*** and if it is a leasehold property, you must have held the lease for at least 7 years. The Lawful Development regulations surrounding ground and first floor extension are quite complex and tend to be very specific to your property, for this reason they are best explained on an individual consultation basis, please give us a call to arrange this.

If I own my property leasehold, do I need the freeholders permission? Upmost Lofts
2015-07-15T14:14:33+00:00